Strategic Design Master of Arts
Program Overview
What is an M.A. in strategic design?
Strategic design speaks the language of business. A Master of Arts in strategic design provides students with an advanced understanding of design, business and communication theory. The program is a fully immersive environment that replicates the rhythms and expectations of a professional firm.
Why study strategic design at Furman?
Diverse and collaborative learners are drawn to the unique opportunities and experiences available through Furman’s strategic design program. Our roster of instructors includes Furman University’s prestigious research faculty and industry professionals who bring a wealth of experience from their current roles. Plan a visit to Furman’s beautiful campus or start your application today.
How will you learn?
This 18-month program provides students with an advanced understanding of design and art direction along with immersion into business and communication theory. Courses are designed to give you a portfolio school experience while providing a high-impact, engaged education customized to each student’s learning objectives and talents. Students will take core courses covering strategic marketing concepts such as consumer behavior, segmentation, distribution, aesthetics, typography and integrated communications. Furman’s Master of Arts in strategic design offers student experiences designed to help you adapt to the changing job market and provide you with industry connections for your transition into a creative career. You can do an internship in the field while you develop your thesis and portfolio, supported by mentoring and advising from Furman’s research faculty and professionals in the field.
Careers for M.A. in strategic design graduates
Our program will prepare you to understand the role of creative thinking in art direction, copywriting and design. You’ll be able to demonstrate competency and critical thinking in those three fields.
You’ll spend your last semester perfecting your portfolio, so that you can jump-start a career such as:
- Account planner
- Art director, creative director or graphic designer
- Brand strategist
- Cartoonist
- Commercial photographer
- Computer graphics and multimedia expert
- Copywriter
- Public relations and marketing manager
- Illustrator
- Surface designer
Strategic design courses: What will you study?
Sample courses include:
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42total credits earned over an 18-month period
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25+undergraduate degree majors represented
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98%job placement rate
Our faculty
Furman’s MASD provides students with an advanced understanding of design, business, and communication theory. Graduates will enter the job market ready to begin their creative careers with a portfolio of professional experience and a network of industry contacts. Potential careers include account planner, brand strategist, commercial photographer, desktop publisher, copywriter, art director, creative director, graphic designer, and public relations and marketing director.
The average starting salary for graduates is $70,000 a year or more, based on reports from recent graduates.
The M.A. in strategic design at Furman is an 18-month, five-term program that begins in the fall.
Apply today by visiting our Begin Your Application page.
EXPLORE THE ADVANTAGE
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The Three Cs of Creative Leadership -
Crafting an Effective Elevator Pitch: How to Make Your Message Stand Out
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Student Spotlight: Oliver Smith (MASD ’23)
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Is the M.A. in Strategic Design the Right Program for You?
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International Student Spotlight: Simran Goel Shares About Her Experience in the M.A. in Strategic Design Program
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A Look Into the Career of a Local Brand Strategist
